§ 70. Mr. T. Johnstonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that since 1935 there has been expended on farm institutes and county demonstration farms in England a sum of £294,000; why no such institutes or farms have been inaugurated in Scotland; and whether it is now proposed to take any steps to promote the establishment of these institutes in Scotland?
§ The Lord AdvocateI understand that the figure quoted in the first part of the question is an estimate of the capital expenditure to be incurred by local authorities in England and Wales in respect of certain schemes which have been approved since 1935 as eligible for grant-aid. In Scotland, as the right hon. Gentleman is aware, agricultural education is carried out at the three Agricultural Colleges, to each of which a demonstration farm is attached. It has not so far been found necessary to adopt the Farm Institute system. The colleges receive grants from State funds and the maintenance grants borne on the Vote of the Department of Agriculture for Scotland for the period of five years to 31st March, 1939, have amounted in the aggregate to about £270,000.
§ Mr. StephenCan the Minister say whether Scotland is receiving its appropriate share of money in this particular respect?
§ The Lord AdvocateI think that is so.